World of Thanks: Old Kentucky Home Tour 2005

Try to imagine this: your favorite actor/actress is a presenter at
the Academy Awards ceremony. Stepping to the microphone, the celebrity
startles the audience by saying, “I’m going to be winning several awards
next year, and there are going to be so many people to thank, there may
not be enough time. So I thought I’d just take a few minutes tonight to
thank some of them in advance!”

Far-fetched? Sure, even by Hollywood standards. But it’s exactly the
situation facing the Old Kentucky Home Tour committee, whose work is
made easier by three very important groups of people — who don’t get
nearly enough recognition and gratitude. So even though it’s a few days
before the event, we’re going to publicly thank some people!

Our first round of applause goes to our sponsors! Look at the names
scattered around on this page, and throughout this newsletter. You’ll
notice that these fine companies are involved in supporting the
Louisville Bicycle Club, and cycling in our community, throughout the
year — not just on the second weekend in September.

Without the generous support of these sponsors, we’ve calculated the
cost per rider for the Old Kentucky Home Tour would more than triple!
So our sincere thanks go out to them: “We couldn’t do it without you!”

Applause, round two, goes to our volunteers! Look back at the
July/August newsletter (link) and
you’ll see the overwhelming list of jobs — and people filling them —
involved in creating and managing an event of this size. And here’s the
good news: YOU can still get your name on this distinguished list. Yes,
it’s really true! There are still a limited number of openings for
people with exactly your abilities! And you’ll get a full serving of
gratitude for signing up now!

Finally, thanks to the riders — all 1,300+ of you! You’ve gotten
yourselves in shape, checked out your bikes, and submitted your
registration forms (or will, when you show up on September 10). You’ll
watch the safety video, ride carefully, and enjoy the “best two days on
wheels you’ll ever experience!” We’re delighted to have you, and hope
to have you back!